Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
August 13, 2022
Read Ephesians 6:10-17
10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and his powerful strength. 11 Put on God’s armor so that you can make a stand against the tricks of the devil. 12 We aren’t fighting against human enemies but against rulers, authorities, forces of cosmic darkness, and spiritual powers of evil in the heavens. 13 Therefore, pick up the full armor of God so that you can stand your ground on the evil day and after you have done everything possible to still stand. 14 So stand with the belt of truth around your waist, justice as your breastplate, 15 and put shoes on your feet so that you are ready to spread the good news of peace. 16 Above all, carry the shield of faith so that you can extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is God’s word.
Good morning! Arm yourself with God’s word.
After what seems like endless days and weeks of oppressive heat, yesterday was such a relief. When I stepped out the door this morning with Neon, my natural response was “Ahh!” This morning’s cool temperatures fill me hope for a day brimming with possibilities as I look forward to being outside once again. Thanks be to God for a bit of respite from the dog days of summer.
Everytime I read about the armor of God, I am immediately drawn back to the story of David and Goliath. I chuckle when I imagine the soldiers covering David with their huge armor. I remember when my own sons tried on a variety of “uniforms” at a children’s museum years ago. How funny they looked wearing this huge attire that was obviously made for a bigger person!
So what is this armor of God of which Paul speaks! Must we go clanking around in heavy armaments when we step out to share the Word? Do we need to wear a uniform that identifies us as God’s servants? The armor of God comes from within us and provides us with everything we need to face our adversaries.
In our quest to overcome the evil that has such a stranglehold on our earth, we must be armed with truth, justice, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. When we are so armed, as we step out in faith, we will be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and all will see that we are followers of Christ working to provide love, grace, and mercy to all. No matter what adversity we face, God will be by our side lifting us up so that the lost will be found. Isaiah 40:31 - But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
When we put on the armor of God, we focus ourselves on our work to save souls. The more time we spend communing with God and studying the word the stronger our armor becomes. With God, all things are possible. "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. Matthew 19:26
Loving and Caring God, Thank You for loving us. We praise You in all things. As we spend time in prayer, may we develop the armor we need to serve you. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: How can I focus on God and pray more throughout the day?
Step out in Faith! Pastor Liz
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